What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cost Accountant position at Carlo's Bakery?
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Cost Accountant to join our team at a busy bakery manufacturing plant. In this role, you will play a critical part in ensuring accurate cost tracking, production efficiency, and financial integrity through daily batch reconciliations and variance analysis. You will work closely with production, operations, and finance teams to monitor ingredient usage, product output, and sales performance, supporting data-driven decisions that optimize costs and profitability in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
- Perform daily batch reconciliations, comparing estimated versus actual ingredients used in production.
- Reconcile total products manufactured and sales per day, verifying that actual final product estimates are fulfilled and identifying any discrepancies.
- Conduct variance analysis on materials, labor, and overhead costs related to bakery production batches.
- Track and analyze production costs, including raw materials (flours, sugars, fats, etc.), packaging, and utilities.
- Maintain and update standard costs for ingredients and finished goods.
- Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly cost reports for management, highlighting key variances and trends.
- Collaborate with production teams to investigate and resolve inventory and batch discrepancies.
- Support month-end close processes, inventory valuation, and budgeting/forecasting activities.
- Assist with internal and external audits as needed.
- Utilize cost accounting systems and tools to ensure data accuracy and process improvements.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (CPA or CMA a plus).
- 3 years of experience in cost accounting, preferably in a manufacturing or food production environment.
- Strong understanding of cost accounting principles, variance analysis, and inventory management.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables, data analysis tools) and other analytic tools (e.g., Power BI, SQL, or similar).
- Experience with PRIMS software (Product Recipe Ingredient Management System) or similar production/recipe management systems is a plus.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, especially in bakery or food production, is highly desirable.
- Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to work independently in a dynamic setting.
- Strong communication skills to interact effectively with cross-functional teams.
Preferred Skills
- Familiarity with ERP systems or manufacturing software.
- Experience in a regulated food manufacturing environment (e.g., FDA, SQF, or HACCP standards).
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume production facility.
Why Join Carlo’s Bakery?
- Opportunity to grow with an internationally recognized brand.
- Friendly and collaborative work environment.
- Hands-on experience in the baking industry.
- Employee discounts on our famous baked goods.
This is a full-time, on-site position offering competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for growth within a growing bakery operation.